For the Kings and Queens Assignment, the film I chose to inspire my design was “Alita”. From this film, I focused mainly on the design of each of the characters. Specifically, focus on the intricate details of the body structure of the characters. The metal inner skeleton of the character, and its complex designs, was one of the key elements that I wanted to incorporate design. Surrounding this skeleton, was various armor plates, this was also important in my design process as I need an aspect to allow the skeletal shape to feel and closed and solid. 

Initially, I created multiple mood boards through a process of collecting and selecting. I first did a rough compilation of images to start the inspiration of my design, and from there I continued to cut down the number of images to finalized the 5 images that I wanted to use. I then created a word list to describe the aspects of the photos that seemed important. From this list, I chose three keywords that most stood out, to build my design around. 

From these words and images, I started to sketch different ideations, of what my final design would look like, I experimented with different shapes and formations for the design of the inner skeleton. Parametric was one of the words I decided to use in my design. This was the main building block that I wanted my design to be based on, mainly because it is unique and futuristic and fits well with my chosen film. After sketching the inner skeleton, I started to add the outer plating that will create solidity in the design, while also keeping in mind the fact that I wanted the design to look like a “king” for the chess piece. 

I chose the 1st design and started to further develop the design on rhino.

Modeling the design on rhino was a big learning curve for me. I slowly experimented with different tools to create my final design. A lot of trial and error went into modeling the design as rhino had a lot of features that I am yet to understand. Through experimenting, I was able to get more comfortable with the new software that was introduced, making me feel more comfortable with using it in the future. 

Looking at my final model, and reflecting on my initial design ideas and thought processes, I can confidently say that I am pleased with the outcome of my final product. I was able to include the key aspects that I wanted in my design, being; a Parametric Futuristic Mechanical design. If I were put this chess piece in the setting of Alita, I believe it would blend right in with its surroundings.

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